The Norwegian Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Tore Hattrem, met with Minister Douglas Devananda, at the Ministry of Social Services and Social Welfare and discussed issues related to the prevailing political realities of the day.

The core issues discussed were in relevance to the proposals in lieu of Sri Lanka's ethnic issue, mainly concentrated in details of the existing political climate in the country.

Minister Devananda explained the pragmatic proposals put forward by the EPDP and the viably achievable political solution which would initiate the mechanism, the first step, that would give life to move ahead towards achieving a final solution to the present ethnic issue.

The Minister vividly addressed the issues related to the Tamil people's political rights and the conflict issue currently in a crippled stage and expressed belief that the pragmatically viable proposals submitted by the EPDP which is in the right direction, in accordance with the Constitution of Sri Lanka. It would provide the avenue to move forward finally fulfilling the aspirations of the Tamil speaking people.

The Norwegian Ambassador gave a patient hearing to the Minister's proposals towards solving the National issue and expressed concern over the positive solution presented by the Minister.

Political advisor of the Norwegian Embassy, Mr. Ekka and advisor to the Minister, Attorney-at-Law, Maheswary Velayutham took part at the discussions.